The Mall: Outlets on Florence, Italy's Outskirts

Illustration: Eric Palma

Florence used to be one of the great shopping cities in Italy. But since the advent of the euro, Florence isn't the bargain it once was—unless you head for one of several factory outlets that have popped up outside the city. There is, of course, Space, which is Prada's place, in Montevarchi, but the newest arrival is The Mall, a clean, well-designed cluster of discount shops, most of them bearing an Italian luxury logo, such as Gucci, Valentino, Agnona, Ferragamo, Armani, Tod's, Loro Piana and Bottega Veneta. There are some non-Italian brands, too (YSL, Balenciaga, Stella McCartney, Alexander McQueen and a few others). If your energy flags, the Mall's restaurant can perk you up with an espresso or a panini. Getting there is easy (any concierge will know where it is). If you don't want to hire a car and driver, rent a car and drive yourself. It's about thirty-five minutes from the center of Florence. Visiting the Mall isn't quite as uplifting as seeing Michelangelo's David, but it's a good way to spend a few hours, if you've the time, the inclination and the stamina. For more information about the Mall, call 011-39-055-8657-775.